6.1 Theoretical Contributions

This study introduces the Urban Land Value Field (ULVF) as a unified theoretical and computational framework for analyzing urban value formation, spatial interaction, and land price determination. Unlike conventional land valuation approaches, which primarily focus on predicting market prices from observed explanatory variables, the ULVF framework interprets land price as the final expression of an underlying urban value field generated through the interaction of multiple spatial mechanisms.

The first theoretical contribution of this study is the establishment of a field-based perspective for understanding urban land value. Within the proposed framework, urban value is regarded as a continuously distributed spatial field rather than a collection of independent parcel attributes. This perspective shifts the analytical focus from isolated land parcels to the spatial processes that generate, transmit, and organize urban value across the urban system.

The second contribution is the introduction of the Dual-Scale Variable Structure (DSVS), which provides a hierarchical representation of urban space by integrating macro-scale structural organization with micro-scale local characteristics. This dual-scale perspective enables the framework to simultaneously represent regional spatial organization and localized urban heterogeneity within a unified analytical system.

The third contribution is the development of the Seven-Variable Structural Model (SVSM), which identifies the principal spatial mechanisms governing urban value formation. By integrating transportation networks, accessibility, socio-economic activities, urban value centers, environmental conditions, land-use functions, and localized spatial factors, the proposed model provides a systematic description of the mechanisms responsible for the generation and evolution of urban value.

The fourth contribution is the formulation of three complementary relational matrices that progressively transform conceptual spatial mechanisms into operational land valuation. The Value Correlation Matrix (VCM) represents the correlation structure of the Urban Land Value Field, the Value Relation Matrix (VRM) describes the relative organization of urban value, and the Price Relation Matrix (PRM) establishes a mathematically consistent transition from value relationships to land-price relationships. Together, these matrices provide a coherent computational architecture linking urban spatial mechanisms with practical land price determination.

A further contribution of the proposed framework is the integration of theoretical concepts and computational implementation within a single methodological structure. Rather than treating urban theory and land valuation as separate research domains, the ULVF framework establishes explicit relationships between urban spatial organization, value formation mechanisms, mathematical representation, and practical applications. This integrated perspective enables the framework to support both scientific investigation and operational decision-making using a common analytical foundation.

Finally, the ULVF framework broadens the role of land valuation within urban studies. Beyond estimating land prices, it provides a systematic approach for analyzing spatial value relationships, evaluating urban development processes, supporting planning decisions, and examining the dynamic evolution of urban systems. The framework therefore establishes a theoretical foundation for future studies on urban value analysis and spatial decision support while maintaining direct applicability to practical land administration and urban management.

Overall, the principal contribution of this study is not the introduction of a single valuation technique, but the development of a coherent theoretical framework that links urban spatial structure, value formation mechanisms, mathematical representation, and land price determination within a unified system. By establishing these connections, the ULVF framework provides a new perspective for understanding the formation, organization, and application of urban value in both research and practice.